Registration
MOOWR Registration Process
Online Application
Submit application on Invest India portal followed by physical submission to jurisdictional Customs Commissionerate with all required documentation.
Application Verification
Customs authorities verify the application within 8-15 days, followed by a physical inspection of the proposed premises by the Customs Superintendent.
Security Assessment
The inspection focuses on security measures like CCTV coverage, fire protection equipment, security personnel, and other factors affecting the safety of duty-free goods.
Approval and Licensing
Based on the verification report, the Commissioner's office reviews the application and issues a MOOWR license if all requirements are met.
Warehouse Code Generation
Jurisdictional Customs officer generates a warehouse code that enables the unit to file bills of entry for warehousing to defer import duties.
Registration Timeline Overview
Standard Registration Process Duration
The entire registration process typically takes 4-7 weeks, depending on document preparation speed, construction status of the proposed unit, and customs processing time. There are no fixed statutory timelines, but this standard sequence is generally followed.
Week-by-Week Registration Timeline
Week 1
Application preparation and submission
During this initial phase, manufacturers must gather all required documentation including company registration papers, manufacturing license, GST registration, IEC certificate, site plans, and security protocols. It's advisable to have pre-consultations with customs consultants to ensure all documents are properly prepared to avoid future delays.
Week 2
Initial scrutiny and issuance of letter for physical verification
Customs authorities conduct a preliminary review of the application to ensure completeness and accuracy. Common issues include incomplete documentation, discrepancies in address details, or insufficient security measures in the proposed plan. Applicants should remain available to address any queries or provide additional information promptly during this period.
Weeks 3-4
Physical verification and submission of verification report
A team of customs officials visits the premises to verify the actual site against submitted plans and assess security measures. They evaluate factors such as perimeter security, CCTV coverage, access control systems, fire safety equipment, and segregation capabilities for bonded goods. This is often the most critical phase where applications face rejection if physical infrastructure doesn't meet requirements.
Weeks 5-6
Detailed scrutiny and approval
The verification report is thoroughly examined by senior customs officials who assess compliance with all regulatory requirements. They evaluate the manufacturer's financial standing, past compliance record, and proposed manufacturing operations. Approval at this stage may include specific conditions tailored to the nature of goods being imported and the manufacturing process.
Week 7
Warehouse code generation and bond execution
Upon approval, the manufacturer must execute a bond with customs authorities.The warehouse code generated becomes the unique identifier for all future transactions under MOOWR.
Planning Considerations for New Facilities
In practice, many units plan to import capital goods under MOOWR when setting up new manufacturing facilities. Since these goods are installed during initial setup, facility construction is often incomplete at application time, causing delays. Manufacturers should plan import shipments only after construction meets the basic security requirements for storing duty-free goods.
Key Documents for MOOWR Registration
Solvency Certificate
Must be addressed to Commissioner of Customs and include the proposed MOOWR unit address. Determines the duty deferment limit available to the unit.
Insurance Policy
An all-risk insurance policy in the name of President of India through Commissioner of Customs. Policy amount should always equal the solvency amount.
Site Plan & Additional Documents
Detailed layout marking entry/exit points, production and storage areas. Also required: warehouse keeper appointment letter with digital signature registration and fire safety audit report from an independent qualified agency.